How to Work a Long and Short Stitch

Using a long and short stitch is handy to give a contemporary look to an embroidery piece. You can create a smooth, continuous look with color. Working a long and short stitch is common in thread painting for example, because you can shade the tones from one to another so effectively. Although it may be harder for a beginner, it is fairly simple to learn.

Things You'll Need

• Embroidery needle for thicker style thread. Cotton will produce the desired effect in most cases.
• Variegated thread with different shades of the same color or all different colors.

Instructions

1. Use a long continuous thread that varies in color all up and down the thread.

2. Start by alternating a row of long stitches with short stitches. After the first row all the stitches will be long and the same length until you get to the last row.

3. Make the last row half stitches that aren't quite as long as the long stitches but not as short as the short stitches. This will fill the area.

4. Make the stitches on a curve as well by starting with long stitches that radiate out resembling a sun. It is better to master the first style before attempting a curve style.

5. Place shorter stitches just in between the long stitches. Make sure that you don't use the same holes as the long stitches and you will get a nice looking smooth, tucked in look.